Prof. Aitor Larrañaga

I am currently an Associate Professor at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and co-lead the Group of Science and Engineering of Polymeric Biomaterials at POLYMAT. My research focuses on the development of advanced polymer-based therapeutic systems, particularly polymeric capsules, as well as on the design of in vitro models to understand and modulate cell–biomaterial interactions. My work aims to bridge fundamental materials science with biomedical applications, contributing to the development of next-generation therapeutic and regenerative strategies. Since completing my PhD (2014), I have consolidated an independent research profile with sustained scientific output and increasing international recognition. I have authored more than 60 peer-reviewed publications, accumulating over 2,000 citations and an h-index of 30 (Google Scholar). My research has been published in leading journals in the fields of biomaterials and materials science, reflecting both the quality and impact of my contributions. I have actively contributed to the attraction of competitive funding, participating in multiple national, regional, and European initiatives. I have led 8 research projects as principal investigator and I am currently involved in two Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN), fostering international training and collaboration. In addition, I coordinate an ENLIGHT Thematic Network, strengthening interdisciplinary connections across European institutions. Beyond research, I am engaged in the supervision of young researchers and in the consolidation of collaborative networks at the international level. I also contribute to the scientific community through peer-review activities and participation in evaluation processes. Overall, my research is driven by the goal of designing functional polymeric systems with precise biological performance, enabling improved therapeutic outcomes and advancing the understanding of biomaterial–cell interactions.

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